To Be a Great Listener

We all have the ability to communicate, with our mouth using words, with our eyes we make gestures, and we all use body language. The best way to be a great communicator is to listen.Thus the saying goes; “God gave us two ears and one month, to listen more, and speak less”. People like good listeners, why? It makes them feel that you have an interest in what they have to say; that what they say is entertaining and it may even make them feel important. When speaking with someone, look at them, and look into their eyes, this tells the person your interested. Don’t stand there with your arms crossed, this makes a person feel as if your waiting for them to get to the point, or that your close minded, and staying there because it would be impolite to walk away. Listen carefully, communicate sincerely and respond to what they are saying positively.

When you are communicating with people you don’t know very well, this can be uncomfortable for all of you, but this is normal. Once the ice has been broken and you are engaged in conversations, be attentive. Ask questions; check for accuracy, if you must repeat what they say It shows them you are listening, at the same time your are clarifying the information for yourself. Always inquire about the subject they are speaking about, acknowledge the facts, perhaps adding your own feeling into the conversation. Don’t go into a conversation as a know it all, or as a “Critical Parent”, that is a complete turn off.  When they are talking about a situation, inquire how they feel about it? And Why? Again Listen more, speak less.“It is better to be though a fool, than to open your month and remove all doubt”. This too is a famous quote.